For many migrants who live and work in Russia, a mobile phone is a vital tool for staying in touch with family and sending money transfers from Russia to Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Azerbaijan. In this context, understanding what an IMEI is becomes especially useful.
What is IMEI?
IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique 15-digit identification number assigned to every mobile device that supports a SIM card. This number helps mobile operators and law enforcement identify a device, for example, in case it is lost or stolen.
For labor migrants, an IMEI may be needed when contacting the Sakharovo Migration Center or when dealing with issues related to migration legislation and migration news, especially when it comes to registering a device or blocking a stolen phone.
How to find your phone’s IMEI?
There are several simple ways to find it:
- On the device packaging. The IMEI is usually printed on the box the phone came in.
- Using a phone command. Dial *#06# and press call. The code that appears on the screen is your IMEI. If your smartphone supports two SIM cards, there will be two IMEI numbers.
- In the phone settings. Look in “About phone” or “Device information.”
- On the device body. Sometimes the number is printed on the SIM tray or under the battery (if it’s removable).
- In the documentation. Check the user manual or warranty card.
If you can’t find the IMEI yourself, you can always ask a mobile operator’s staff member for help.
Why is this important for migrants?
Knowing your IMEI helps protect your device and personal data.
If your phone is lost or stolen, you can quickly block the device, which is especially important for those who regularly send money transfers from Russia to CIS countries and need reliable communication.
In addition, when processing documents at the Sakharovo Migration Center or addressing matters related to migration legislation, the IMEI may be required to confirm ownership of the device.
